Did you know the eligibility period for new employees who have passed their probation period is typically 30 days?
Meeting the deadline is important and here’s why.
Did you know the eligibility period for new employees who have passed their probation period is typically 30 days?
Meeting the deadline is important and here’s why.
Late Applicants
Once an employee has completed your company’s probation period (if applicable), they enter the eligibility period, which is typically 30 days. The employee must opt into group benefits during this time to join the group benefits plan seamlessly. If they wait until after the eligibility period to opt into the plan, they are considered a late applicant.
Late applicants may face the following implications:
The eligibility period is applicable not only to employees, but to family members as well. Those with family coverage must add new family members (including marriage, cohabitation, and birth of a new child) within 30 days.
Employers are responsible for informing their staff of the eligibility period to avoid being liable for any of these implications.
Waiver of Coverage:
There are only two circumstances in which employees may be able to opt out of group benefits coverage:
It is important to note that life and disability insurance are mandatory for employees if offered in the benefits plan. Employees may only forego health and dental coverage under the above circumstances.
If an employee would like to waive coverage, a Benefits Waiver Form must be completed. Each carrier has their own customized form that they will provide to you and your employee.
If the employee loses their spouse’s coverage at any time, they can enroll in your company’s plan within 31 days of the coverage termination.
If you would like to learn more or have any questions, feel free to contact me at
erica@c2inc.com As a Group Benefits Advisor I’m here to ensure your benefits work for you.